Michele Mandel, Toronto Sun

Kachkar, who was found not criminally responsible for the death of Sgt. Ryan Russell last year, appeared before his annual review last week to request a move into the general population of the hospital where he would not be monitored as closely.

The hospital and his psychiatrist had opposed the request, arguing that he was getting the best help for his complex mental illness in the secure forensic unit where he has only recently begun taking anti-psychotic medication.

Also opposed was Russell’s widow, Christine, who delivered an emotional victim impact statement at the hearing.

The ORB agreed that Kachkar must remain where he is for now, but will still enjoy the escorted community privileges he was accorded at his hearing last year. As of last week, Kachkar had been on three accompanied visits to a Whitby mall.